DNA Direct: Your Genes in Context

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Paternity & Family Tests

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ADOPTION

Searching for Birth Families: How Is It Done?

If you decide to search, there are many possible strategies, including using registries, working with confidential intermediaries, or obtaining a court order. In most states in which adoption records are sealed, the court requires "good cause" before unsealing records; good cause can include compelling medical reasons.

Please note that several states use an affidavit system, in which parties can place prior written consent for release of identifying information in the adoption file. It is important for birthparents to place such an affidavit in their file, if they are willing to be found by the child they have placed for adoption. If they do not, and they are in a state that requires mutual consent, the child could be trying to contact them, but not be able to because the file did not contain affidavits from all parties.

The individual states have different regulations about the rights of birthparents, other birth relatives, and adoptees to gain access to information. There is no unifying federal legislation governing this information.